GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
The Geographic Information Systems section of the Natural Heritage Program deals with the capture, analysis, and display of rare species, natural community, and habitat information. With two full-time staff persons, this section collaborates closely on projects with the DFWELE GIS Program. The GIS section also cooperates closely with MassGIS. The Program relies on MassGIS for the use of Arc/Info in addition to the use of important statewide data layers such as soils, roads, and land use.

NHESP regularly produces and maintains GIS data layers, which are accessible to the public. Click here for a description of the data layers, and instructions on how to download them.

Printed maps and GIS datalayers may be purchased through MassGIS, the state GIS agency.   For more information, contact MassGIS at (617) 727-5227 or visit their website at: http://www.mass.gov/mgis/.  

PROJECTS

• In 2001 NHESP completed a comprehensive statewide effort to map priority natural communities and the best habitats for all rare species that we track.  The effort, dubbed 'The BioMap Project' involves GIS, remote sensing, and fieldwork to characterize the Massachusetts landscape in terms of long-term viable habitat, focusing on critical protection needs. The BioMap project has attracted national attention, and was selected as a Case Study by the Conservation Fund. A 14 page review was recently posted on Green Infrastructure a web site that is sponsored by the Conservation Fund and the USDA Forest Service.
  In 2003, the Program completed a similar mapping project focusing on freshwater biodiversity. Called the 'Living Waters' project, it complemented the work started with BioMap, but addressed issues specific to aquatic systems, such as characterizing upstream watersheds.  

  Map showing density of Heritage Rare Species occurrences by town.   click here  for a larger map

• Every two years, NHESP produces an updated Atlas, which shows rare species habitat layers and vernal pools by U.S.G.S. quadrangle map. The current, 12th edition, effective October 1, 2006, can be ordered by sending an email to natural.heritage@state.
  ma.us or by calling 508-389-6300x200.

• In conjunction with the release of each Atlas, NHESP also provides large-scale maps to each town Conservation Commission that show both the Priority Habitats of Rare Species and Estimated Habitats of Rare Wetlands Wildlife. These maps are intended for public viewing. NHESP has also produced maps showing our BioMap and Living Waters layers. These maps may be used to guide local conservation efforts. 

• In 2000, NHESP completed a statewide survey of Massachusetts to locate Potential Vernal Pools (PVPs).  Using Color-Infrared Aerial Photographs, NHESP located all wetlands determined to have a high probability of functioning as vernal pool habitat.  Over 29,000 PVPs were located throughout Massachusetts.  To see a sample town map showing  PVPs, click here (181k)

If you have questions about NHESP GIS projects or data, please contact the GIS Manager, David Szczebak at david.szczebak@state.ma.us or 508-389-6353.

Last updated: 1/17/07